Details on Retaining Wall Construction

Retaining walls help to direct the flow of water in specific areas of a property. They are especially helpful when a slope leads to a body of water. However, retaining walls must meet several city and state regulations before they can be built. Here are some of these requirements. this website
The first step in retaining a wall is to select the type of backfill and drainage system. If the wall is to be tall, it is best to choose blocks that are 1 to 2 inches higher than the surrounding terrain. Alternatively, retaining walls over four feet should be tied to the hillside with deadmen anchors, which are 6-foot-long tiebacks buried into the hillside and extend back to a 2-foot-wide T-bar.
Another concern to consider is the weight of the wall. If the wall is built on a steep slope, it is important to consider the weight of additional structures that may be placed behind it. If the wall is not designed to handle these additional lateral loads, it may collapse and shift. Therefore, engineers should carefully assess the new weight to determine the best retaining wall construction.
Once the wall is in place, it must be monitored regularly. Building staff should check for cracked or loose mortar joints, as well as changes in the landscape on either side of the wall. It is also important to keep drainage vents clean and clear of debris. Inadequately installed vents can allow water to accumulate at the base of the wall and cause damage to the foundation.
The purpose of retaining walls is to hold soil. They are usually tall and fairly rigid, with a slope, and are built to resist the pressure of soil, rocks, and water. A retaining wall is often referred to as a seawall or bulkhead. Retaining walls are used for landscaping and other specific purposes.
Retaining walls are often used to create terraced yards that have steep slopes. Aside from being functional, retaining walls can also be attractive. Many low retaining walls are used as a planting bed, and they can add interest to a flat yard. They can also be constructed as a backdrop to an outdoor kitchen.